Biikebrennen in North Friesland, Germany
Biikebrennen in North Friesland, Germany is held on February 21. St. Peter's Day Eve. The annual festival dates back to the Middle Ages and now attracts the first tourists. This event in the third decade of the month February is annual. 
Help us
Help us 
Nowadays, the biikebrennen, as the bonfire tradition is called, is regarded as the most important regional festival, but this has not always been the case.
According to popular belief, biikebrennen is said to date back several centuries with roots in pagan celebrations for the Germanic god, Wodan. The fire is supposed to chase away evil spirits and protect seedlings in the upcoming season. In this interpretation, it marks the end of winter and the beginning of a new spring.
Another interpretation is that the biikebrennen was part of the farewell ceremonies held on the North Frisian islands and along the coast for departing fishermen, especially whalers.
The historical claims supporting its supposed long-lasting ties to earlier times may have been one reason why it was eagerly picked up and became a widespread custom again. In 2014, it was even officially recognized as intangible cultural heritage in Germany.
Source: folklife.si.edu
Similar holidays and events, festivals and interesting facts
Rheingau Gourmet and Wine Festival on February 20
European Day for Equal Pay Men and Women on February 22
Stork Day in Haslach im Kinzigtal on February 22 (When the streets become a children's paradise);
The Fools' Court in Stockach on February 27 (political spectacle for 660 years);
Weiberfastnacht in Germany on February 27 (Held on the Thursday before Lent);
Carnival Parade in Germany on March 1
Fastelavn in Denmark and Norway on March 2 (day on which Shrove Monday can fall)
Free Holiday Calendar widgets for websites